Clarence Avant Cause of Death: How Did Clarence Avant Pass Away?

Alamu TosinAugust 16, 2023

Clarence Avant, also known as “The Black Godfather,” was a prominent figure in the American music industry.

Clarence Avant Cause of Death

At the time of this report, there were no reports about the cause of death of Clarence Avant. Due to his advanced age, he might have died of natural causes.

Clarence Avant Biography

Born on February 25, 1931, he left a lasting legacy as a music executive, businessman, and film producer. His influence and contributions spanned across various areas, earning him a well-deserved reputation.

Raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, Avant’s early education was marked by attending a one-room school until eighth grade. He continued his high school years in Dudley High School in Greensboro before moving to New Jersey as a teenager. It was in New Jersey that his journey into the music world began, working as a stock clerk at Macy’s and later getting involved with Teddy P’s Lounge, managed by promoter Teddy Powell.

Clarence Avant Age

At the time of his death, he was 92 years old.

Clarence Avant Career

Joseph G. “Joe” Glaser, who managed Louis Armstrong and founded music booking corporations, became Avant’s mentor, guiding him through the music business. Avant went on to manage notable artists such as R&B singer Little Willie John, jazz musicians Sarah Vaughan, Kim Weston, and Luiz Bonfa, among others. His influence extended to founding Avant Garde Enterprises, Inc. and Sussex Productions, Inc., showcasing his business acumen.

Notably, Avant played a pivotal role in the creation of Venture Records Inc., which facilitated a groundbreaking collaboration between an African American artist and a major record company. His journey led him to Beverly Hills, where he worked with Venture Records Inc. until its closure. Avant’s impact also reached Stax Records, where he played a role in its sale to Gulf+Western.

In 1969, Avant founded Sussex Records, which became a platform for artists like Bill Withers, Dennis Coffey, and Gallery. He later founded Avant Garde Broadcasting, Inc., acquiring an FM radio station in Los Angeles. Despite challenges, Avant’s resilience was evident in his pursuits.

Avant’s contributions were widely recognized through awards and accolades. He received the Trustees Award from the National Association of Recording Arts and Sciences in 2008, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2016, and the President’s Merit Award at the Clive Davis Pre Grammy Gala in 2018. His legacy reached its pinnacle when he was honored with the Ahmet Ertegun award by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021.

Clarence Avant’s life and career exemplified his remarkable impact on the music industry, leaving an indelible mark that will continue to resonate with generations to come.